FORT CAMPBELL, Ky. – As of Aug. 15, a driver’s license will not get you past the gate at Fort Campbell as the post tightens access.

Those without DoD-issued identification will be required to go to the visitor centers near Gate 4 or Gate 7 to obtain a visitor pass and will be subject to a criminal history check.

In a response to a query on the new policy, Fort Campbell spokesman Robert Jenkins stated, “Under the access changes, it’s not unlike the procedures followed when installation decals were used.”

The policy of using windshield decals to identify DoD ID card holders went away as a security measure, so that military members’ vehicles could not be easily identified by someone targeting U.S. military personnel.

“That’s when installation access became less cumbersome,” Jenkins said. “However, easier installation access necessitated security matters to be tightened, and DoD is ensuring installations come into a uniform compliance.

“Essentially, a DoD ID card and CAC (Common Access Card) are the only means of entry. All other entry requires a pass, which is granted with drivers license, vehicle registration and proof of insurance, as has always been the case.

“New to the requirement is the background check. One can have the necessary paperwork for entry, but if one pops on the background check, access will be denied and authorities will be notified. The background check is a computerized search and only takes a minute.”